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Byāhatti, a small town in Karnataka, India, rests at coordinates 15.4468°N, 75.2054°E, and a population of approximately 14,097. Geographically, it’s situated within the undulating terrain of the Western Ghats foothills, a landscape characterized by laterite hills and fertile valleys. This location places Byāhatti within a transitional zone between the coastal plains and the higher elevations of the Ghats. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, with rice paddies, coconut groves, and areca nut plantations dominating the rural areas. The town itself exhibits a typical Indian urban-rural gradient, with denser housing and commercial activity concentrated around the main road networks, gradually giving way to agricultural land. Its proximity to larger industrial hubs like Hubballi-Dharwad (approximately 80km) and the increasing vehicular traffic along state highways contribute to localised air pollution. The lack of significant natural wind corridors due to the hilly terrain can exacerbate pollutant concentration. The presence of the Tungabhadra River further downstream influences local humidity and potentially contributes to the formation of fog during cooler months, trapping pollutants near the ground. Understanding this interplay of topography, land use, and regional influences is crucial for assessing Byāhatti’s air quality challenges.

Byāhatti experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, heavily influencing its air quality. The pre-monsoon months (March-May) see a significant spike in particulate matter due to agricultural burning to clear fields for sowing, coupled with rising temperatures and stagnant air. This period is generally unfavourable for outdoor activity, particularly for those with respiratory conditions. The arrival of the Southwest Monsoon (June-September) brings relief, washing away pollutants and improving air quality considerably. However, increased humidity can foster mould growth, impacting sensitive individuals. October-November sees a gradual return of drier conditions and a corresponding increase in dust and pollutants from road traffic and construction. This is a moderate risk period. The winter months (December-February) often experience temperature inversions, trapping pollutants close to the ground, especially during calm mornings. Fog formation is common, further reducing visibility and exacerbating air quality issues. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during these periods. Monitoring local weather patterns and avoiding peak traffic hours are recommended strategies for mitigating exposure.